Caregivers, Access, and Responsible Expansion for Kids Act of 2025; CARE for Kids Act of 2025
Summary
The CARE for Kids Act of 2025 aims to amend the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to enhance direct certification for free or reduced-price school lunches. It broadens eligibility to include children in specific caregiver situations, such as those in kinship care or living with grandparents in low-income housing. The bill also extends eligibility for transferred children under certain circumstances.
Expected Effects
This act will likely increase the number of children automatically eligible for free or reduced-price school lunches. It aims to reduce administrative burdens and ensure more consistent access to nutritious meals for vulnerable children. The extended eligibility provisions could provide stability for children transitioning between schools and living arrangements.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to free or reduced-price school lunches for children in kinship care or with grandparent caregivers.
- Simplified enrollment processes through enhanced direct certification.
- Extended eligibility for children transferring schools, providing continuity of benefits.
- Improved food security for low-income families with caregiver arrangements.
- Potential for better health and academic outcomes for participating children.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased administrative costs associated with expanded eligibility verification.
- Possible strain on school food service resources due to increased participation.
- Risk of errors in eligibility determination due to the complexity of caregiver arrangements.
- Potential for fraud or abuse in claiming benefits.
- May not address underlying issues of poverty and food insecurity beyond school meals.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution (Preamble), which empowers Congress to promote the well-being of citizens, particularly children. By expanding access to school lunch programs, the act aims to improve the health and nutrition of vulnerable children, supporting their development and future contributions to society. The bill operates within the established framework of federal programs and does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).